<p>Hello, I am having an extremely difficult time deciding between these two colleges. I visited and loved both. I would like to get some opinions about these schools, comparing their strengths and weaknesses. (I am considering majoring in English, French, International Relations, or Political Science).
Thanks!</p>
<p>Unlike say, the harder calls (Wesleyan, Haverford, Swarthmore, Middlebury), There is a HUGE difference between W&M and Vassar: You will notice this in both the social scene and the tenured faculty. </p>
<p>First Academics: Vassar has the better English Dept. W&M is probably going to be thought to have the better Gov't/IR, but you're main difference is perspective. W&M has a VERY TRADITIONAL (I hestitate to say conservative) academic program in gov't and IR . . . and good links with DC on both sides of the aisle, but you're not going to find progressive, boundary pushing thought there in the same way as you will at Vassar (i.e if you interested in Social Movements, Post-Colonial policy, Human rights - maybe vassar is a better choice). Student body is going to be moderate to right leaning, where Vassar is pretty left leaning.</p>
<p>Socially: There are NO hipsters at W&M, its a very preppy crowd. It still does the Frat/Sorority thing which is a major environmental difference between it and VC. Both schools have very smart committed students but VC's going to have more of an emphasis on Music/Arts in the social scene than W&M.</p>
<p>Both campus's are spectacular. Williamsburg is better than Poughkeepsie.</p>
<p>snow vs sun. that is the main issue</p>